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Preserving Your Story

The Author Cries Upon Seeing Her First Book A biblical voice sings out This, I have created! Held in hand, a hardcover book, Cloth, they call it, embossed on the side in Gold. My very own name and the four-word title. Did I say, in gold? There must be some mistake. I open the pages, see my photo, breathe, Read from Chapter One, aloud, With gratitude. Two mesmerized felines stare, rapt, At such a brilliant story. One Drops off to sleep in seconds. Thank you, I smile at the yawning cats, Thanks, blue-framed mirror, painted clock on the wall, And to you, flowered couch, walnut table, as well to All who ventured out this sunny day to hear My memoir, wrenched from Pain and History. Thank you everyone for everything! I really mean it. Finally, The story I've been dying to tell, What countless poems All these temperamental years have been about. It's not the hours, but the moments, The moments. And this, my friends, is sure one of them.

—Brenda Serotte, whose memoir, The Fortune Teller's Kiss, was published by the University of Nebraska Press in 2006

Benefits of Preserving Your Story
Why it matters for you to tell your story.

Before You Begin...
A list of questions to ask yourself about what you hope to accomplish - plus a list of FAQ.

Pre-Interview Questions
If you decide to be interviewed about your life by a personal historian, here are some helpful things to think about before you begin.

Tips for Interviewing Relatives
Prepare yourself to conduct a personal history interview.

Practical tips and insights into writing life stories
Get insight from the authors of the APH Anthology.

How APH Personal Historians Can Help
A range of projects and ideas to consider.

How to Find the Personal Historian For You
Suggestions to help you find a personal historian to meet your unique needs.

Find a Personal Historian Now
Search our Membership Directory for a professional Personal Historian who fits your needs.

What Formats Are Available To Preserve Your Story
Our members offer a multitude of formats to help preserve personal histories—from recording your stories on audiotape, videotape, or DVD to producing a beautiful family history book.

What Content Will You Include in Your Story?
Personal history projects are as varied as the individuals creating them. What kinds of content you want to include in your life story. Do you want to leave a legacy, preserve your family recipes, focus on your genealogy? Our members offer a multitude of suggestions.

How the Commercial Publishing Industry Develops Material
Convinced Your Memoir Is The Next Best-Seller? Don't book that world cruise just yet.

Supported Self-Publishing
Working with Print-On-Demand Publishers.